Winners Transform £4 Million Bath House into Holiday Let

A stunning property valued at £4 million, located just outside Bath, has been converted into a holiday let by its new owners, Paul Knight and Justin Snowdon. The couple won Batheaston House through a £20 entry in the Omaze Million Pound House Draw earlier this year. Faced with substantial running costs, they chose to rent out the house while retaining ownership, allowing them to share its charm with others.

Paul described the moment they learned about their win, stating, “Justin and I were shocked when we found out we’d won Batheaston House through the Omaze Million Pound House Draw. Once the initial shock had subsided, we started to think about what we could do with such an impressive property.”

The couple decided that holiday letting would allow them to share the house’s beauty while also generating income. Batheaston House accommodates up to 12 guests, featuring six bedrooms, a rare Tudor charcoal stove, 17th-century graffiti, and a still-functioning Tudor well. The property also boasts modern amenities, including a home cinema and a hot tub, catering to a variety of guest preferences.

Paul Knight has transitioned from his previous career as a DJ and bar manager to focus on managing the holiday let. Despite this change, Justin has maintained his role as a flight attendant. Paul expressed his enthusiasm for the new venture, stating, “It’s been a complete career shift for me, but I’ve loved every minute, and the Sykes team has been wonderful as we find our feet.”

Batheaston House is listed at a rate exceeding £3,838 per week for holidaymakers, appealing to those seeking a unique experience in a historic setting. According to Sykes Holiday Cottages, the couple’s decision to open their home to holidaymakers exemplifies the diverse possibilities within the holiday letting market. The company’s Chief Commercial Officer noted, “There are so many different routes into holiday letting, and Paul and Justin are a great example of this.”

The rise of holiday lets, particularly in Bath, has prompted discussions about their impact on the local housing market. In November 2023, Councillor Joanna Wright voiced concerns about the balance between tourism and the availability of homes for long-term residents, highlighting that over 1,000 Airbnbs are listed in the city. Despite these concerns, a motion to regulate holiday lets was defeated, with 40 votes against and just four in favor.

As the couple embarks on this new chapter with Batheaston House, they aim to combine the historical significance of the property with modern hospitality. Their journey reflects a growing trend among property owners who seek to capitalize on the lucrative holiday rental market while preserving their connection to unique homes.

For those interested in experiencing Batheaston House for themselves, bookings are now open, offering a chance to enjoy both the historical and contemporary features of this remarkable property.